Enikö Sonkoly President of the European Society for Dermatological Research
Enikö Sonkoly, Professor at the Department of Medical Sciences, was elected President of ESDR at the annual meeting in Lisbon. Photo: Josef Rabara, ESDR.
Hello there, Enikö Sonkoly, Professor of Dermatology and Venereology at the Department of Medical Sciences, who has been elected President of the European Society for Dermatological Research (ESDR). Congratulations!
“Thank you!”
How does it feel to have been elected President of the ESDR?
“It feels fantastic, and it is a very rewarding position that also carries a lot of responsibility. I have been a member of the ESDR since my time as a doctoral student and have participated in the congresses almost every year. The society has given me a lot, including inspiration from fantastic speakers and participation in the Future Leaders Academy of Dermatology as a mentee. This programme inspired me to continue my research and gave me friends from different countries.”
“I want to attract and retain more scientists in academic dermatological research. It is also essential to support younger researchers,” says Enikö Sonkoly. Photo: Mikael Wallerstedt.
What is the ESDR?
“ESDR stands for the European Society for Dermatological Research, the largest dermatological research society in Europe, with around 1,200 members. Founded in 1970 by visionaries, the ESDR is unique in that it connects basic scientists and clinicians to promote dermatological research. The meetings are known for their friendly and open atmosphere.”
What does the presidency mean for you and your research?
“The presidency allows me to give back to the society that has given me so much. It is also an opportunity to get to know fantastic researchers from around the world and to strengthen collaborations.”
What do you hope to achieve as President of the ESDR?
“I want to attract and retain more scientists in academic dermatological research. The best ideas are born when basic scientists and clinicians work together. It is also essential to support younger researchers. We have recently launched ‘Young ESDR’, as a continuation of the mentoring programme, to provide young researchers with mentoring, networking, and a platform to develop their leadership skills, for example, by organising their own symposia.”
Petter Nording Cronsten